MBTA may start running until 2 a.m.

Expanded western service part of possible plans

Commuters who ride the rails every day have heard about plans to fix the aging system. But there are some other plans hidden in the governor's budget proposal that might surprise riders.

That includes expanding MBTA service into the early morning hours on weekends. T managers are studying a plan that would keep trains and buses running until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

Unlike the failed "night owl" service used on select weekend buses, this would be across the board.

"If additional operating funds are identified, major bus routes and the most heavily traveled portions of the subway and light rail systems will be considered as part of a pilot program," MBTA spokesman Joe Pesaturo said in a statement.

Other projects being proposed are restoring weekend services on the Needham and Old Colony lines; running passenger trains regularly to Springfield and the Berkshires; and more frequent bus service beyond Greater Boston on weekends.

"The cost of service will be determined once operating schedules and frequencies are identified," Pesaturo said. "Costs associated with additional service hours include vehicle fuel, power, personnel, cleaning, station and parking area lighting and increased customer service and Transit Police hours to ensure passenger safety."

The changes could mean higher taxes and fees and requires legislative approval.

Copyright 2013 by WCVB.comAll rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.